Baptisia sphaerocarpa (Large Yellow Wild Indigo) Wildflower Seeds

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About Large Yellow Wild Indigo: Large Yellow Wild Indigo grows in sandy, dry areas or open woods; its deep tap root gives it protection from the drought and prairie fires of its native ground. Native Americans and early settlers once used various species of this plant family to make a blue dye, since the superior true indigo dye was expensive and not easily obtained. As a member of the nitrogen-fixing legume family, indigo makes an excellent choice for soil that needs replenishment of its nutrients. The Latin genus name “baptisia” comes from the Greek “bapto,” meaning “to dye.”

Large Yellow Wild Indigo Germination: Since this plant does not transplant well, it should be direct sown. The seed will need to be scarified; to accomplish this, pour 150 degrees F water over the seed and let it soak overnight the day before planting. In late fall, plant the seeds ˝” deep. For spring planting, the scarified seed will need to be mixed with moist sand and stored in the refrigerator for 10 days before planting. Germination should take place within 15-20 days. This plant can also be propagated by cuttings. Indigo tolerates clay, gravel, and sand and can also thrive in poor soil.

Growing Large Yellow Wild Indigo Seeds: This plant tolerates drought well, but it also benefits from occasional watering. Though long-lived, the plants develop slowly and may not flower until their second or third season. The foliage may be pruned for neat growth after blooming, though this will prevent the development of the seed pods. The plant will go dormant over winter, and can be cut down to 6” after the foliage dies. Eventually, the plants will spread by rhizomes. This plant attracts butterflies.

Harvesting Large Yellow Wild Indigo: The foliage and seed pods of this flower both dry well and make attractive additions to dried flower arrangements.

Saving Large Yellow Wild Indigo Seeds: When ripe, the seed pods will turn black; cut them off and spread them out to dry away from direct sunlight. Split the pods open to remove the seed. Store the seed in a cool, dry place.